A PARK which has been plagued by vandalism is set to have a new lease of life after residents backed plans for a major clean up.

The recently formed Friends of Caludon Park held a public meeting last night to discuss the future of the park, which is off Farren Road, in Wyken, and houses Coventry's only castle ruins.

Chairman Bob Nash outlined plans to tackle flooding problems, introduce benches for visitors, clean up the moat area around the castle and arrange social gatherings and family picnics in an attempt to banish vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Despite general support for the improvement plans, concerns were raised over the park's gates, which are constantly kept locked meaning cars do not have access.

Friends of Caludon Park committee member Matt Smith said: "There is an excellent chance of getting a heritage lottery fund grant but we won't get it without providing access.

"We have to ensure the gates are kept open for a reasonable period of time."

Several residents agreed they would like to see the gates kept open during the day.

Cllr Hazel Sweet (Lab, Wyken) said plans were in place for CCTV cameras to be installed at the entrance to the park which she said should prevent the type of antisocial behaviour the gates currently protect the park from.

Dr Nash said: "Caludon Park is the only park in the city with closed gates and what does that say to the people outside?"

However, he added the control of the gates was with the council's Emergency Services Unit and said it was not a matter which could be resolved immediately by the Friends of Caludon Park.

At the meeting it was decided to adopt a constitution for the group outlining its aims so applications for funding can go ahead.

The council plans to introduce a multi-use game area with floodlights and it has also provided six benches to be placed in various spots around the park.

The group also voted to hold a clean up day on October 29 at 10am.

Anyone who wishes to improve the appearance of the park is welcome to attend.